FIRST OWNER'S REPORT: HOW'S MY LEXUS LC 500 OWNERSHIP EXPERIENCE SO FAR? // ENGINEER'S REAL FEEDBACK
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 7 ก.พ. 2025
- This is a straight forward, real feedback of the new 2024 Lexus LC 500 Inspiration Series, purchased by an Automotive Engineer David Chao. In his first night cruise, David covers all of the details of what he likes and what he's not too crazy about owning the LC 500. How's the driving feel? What are some of the things that can be improved? Watch the entire video as David goes over all the details as an owner.
Automotive Press is owned and managed by David Koichi Chao, a global expert in the field of automotive evaluation, engineering, and strategy. With over 35 years of engineering experience, David is able to review vehicles from unique perspectives utilizing technical and specialized methods. David is a board member and a director at AJAC (Automobile Journalist Association of Canada).
David is known around the world as an authentic specialist of Lean/Agile Thinking, and travels all around the world to review vehicles and teach latest engineering methods. Born and raised in Japan, David has an engineering degree from University of British Columbia and post-graduate education from MIT and Harvard Business School in Boston.
Please keep the LC500 updates coming, legendary vehicle!
he is gonna sell it soon for next video
David, Once again, let me offer congratulations on your acquisition of the LC 500!! Beyond the impeccable build quality and performance, my favourite feature of the LC is the blue interior.
I have owned two cars with blue interiors over the years. My first blue interior came with a 1979 Pontiac LeMans sedan and the second was installed in a 1980 Dodge Diplomat. I have to say, your blue interior is even nicer than those. 😉😉😉
Thank you Mike!
My experience of a blue interior was a 1979 Toyota Starlet 1.2 petrol. It was my sister's driving school car and I loved it because my first car was a 1979 Toyota Starlet 1.0 petrol. My sister's car had 200cc more than mine and it had a blue interior, everything was blue, mine was dog poo brown so I wanted my sister's car 😂
@@andyburnett8012 I don't know what colour the interior will be but apparently the Starlet is making a comeback.
@@rightlanehog3151
The interior appears to be more of a purple color! I am not a fan of the inspiration series!
This car has a soul, I have a 2022 with performance pack black on black and just adore it . Was my retirement gift 😂. Great vid David .
Nice! With or without the Sports Package with Torsen limited-slip rear differential? The one I want to buy does not include the Sport Package which features the LSD. Should I still buy or pass?
What a gift
Congrats on your new LC 500. In part because of your reviews I just purchased a Bespoke LC 500 2022. It is the best car I have ever driven and still learning all it has to offer.😁
I would want the Dynamic Handling package- which is not offered in the Bespoke, Inspiration, or Convertible models! So this mode is not the obeyed I would up ld b purchase - it is not special enough or offer enough for the price premium!
Have had many European cars in the past, and now at an age that makes me feel that I have made a sensible decision to buy a Lexus LC500, I am a X Porsche mechanic, I do I have a very good mechanical background. This car is unique, it gives the driver a very enjoyable feeling when driving this car! Believe me the comments from other drivers that see my car is always favorable. Nobody ever comments on the look of my 911, far too common.
Great choice David excellent car, that will always put a big smile on your face.
Thank you for the comment. How are Mercedes vehicles?
Man, the looks of this car is timeless❤
Congratulations on your purchase this is my dream car. Great review style, no drama, crazy title or hyperbole. When this car first came out I thought it should wear the Supra badge but as time has gone on I realized why it didn’t, and have grown to like it even more. It’s a true GT car, a high end Japanese muscle car, not a dogfighting sports car. An excellent addition to the lineage of Lexus coupes.
What's a dogfighting sports car?
@@jacobstrouble6631 He meant like a dogfighter jet aka super-fast and cool interior. Like a Ferrari 812 or a Camaro ZL1.
You have contributed to influencing me to go for this before it goes out of production 😄 Cheers!
Perfect vehicle for middle age guy like me! Great video David! 👍👍👍
David, thank you for sharing your driving experience with your new Inspiration series
LC500. The sound of the V-8 engine when idling, and when you started your drive was incredible.
Thank you Elizabeth!
It's only incrediable if you have not lived in the world of V8 muscle cars from past decades; however, I did so a roaring exhaust sound merely reminds me of my high school parking lot!
Absolutely gorgeous car! I never thought I'd say any Lexus is one of my dream cars, (the LFA was just too crazy expensive and looked a bit bland) but that was before the LC-500. It is now my goal to get one of these someday (lightly used) and take a supercar road trip...without the supercar anxiety.😉
That's a pleasure looking car David. It always puts a smile on my face. Congratulations once more and enjoy it every time.
Congratulations on the LC500!
I recently just traded my RC-350 F-Sport for an RC-F, and I have to say, the V8 is just a masterpiece. I'm hoping I can eventually get an LC down the road, I know the '18's have the cheapest buy-in, but after watching so many reviews on them, I'd like a newer one just due to all the suspension changes I've heard they made to make the ride much better in the newer models. Your Inspiration Series is truly a unicorn!
Such a beauty. Feel like if the LFA were still around that is would be it’s current style.
Absolutely love this vehicle. Just purchased my first 2023 lc500 2 weeks ago 🙏
Congrats!! It's such an amazing car! Hopefully, in a few years, I'll be ready to pick one up.
Love the sound of the engine!
What a beautiful car, you bought, so happy for you! Great color and rims!
Superb car David one of the best cars in the world love your videos keep up the good work kev from the United Kingdom
A gracefully executed, two-toned paint scheme would be fantastic to see in the LC 500!
Gorgeous car, congratulations!!!
I’m awaiting my Flare Yellow bespoke convertible. Looking forward to joining the family.
I hope that it all works out for you and that you love your new baby! I was told by many of my friends who have owned convertibles and who are now in their 60s, that as they grew older the practicality and dream of the convertible were outweighed by the impracticality of its daily usage. With the roof down, it was often too hot to use and they never drove the convertible long enough to make night driving a major usage point. So they ended up driving with the top up most of the time, thus defeating the use of the convertible top. HOWEVER, nothing looks as nice as a convertible with its top down on a nice cool sunny fall or winter day! I guess as a second vehicle, you cannot go wrong with your choice and you only live once in life. Enjoy.
P.S. Please be aware of the trade-offs between a coupe and a convertible, weight and higher turning being two of these trade-offs. Wind in your hair- priceless!
@@edmundcharles5278 I received my car and I’m in love. I drive it with the top down as much as possible but don’t mind it with it up. It’s my second car too. It’s the most beautiful paint I’ve ever seen. Had no idea all the millions of flakes in it (had never seen Flare yellow before).
Stunning car. Thank you for sharing and enjoy for many years to come. Your video's played a role in my purchasing a 2023 LC convertible.
what a sweet sweet sound. I am envious!
Thank you, and looking forward to more updates. I'll be trading my RCF for the LC this year!
It's a very special and unique car. It's my dream car, love your videos.
I believe that the interior of the lc500 is by far the best out there.Amazing car, enjoy it!
Congrats. Great purchase
I have 2022 LC500. Beautiful car. I still believe analog watch and glass panel running along who dashboard is best looking interior.
Agree. I prefer the screen on my LC500. It looks more luxurious and elegant than the touchscreen placed over the dash.
Yep, I didn't even know that they removed the back-lit glass panel on the passenger side. This car is all about the design, that alone stops me from trading my 2021 for the new beautiful blue/white interior.
Agree! @@StereoHound
@@jdesmo1 LC doesn't handle as well, but it exudes luxury and quality, can't go wrong.
Touch screens are for Tesla crap, Lexus dropped the ball when they caved in to the TH-cam critics whining about the mouse pad. A 2020 model with Apple play is best option.
Great choice!! Like you said. Definitely a keeper. After the break in period. Hope we get to hear the V8 sound when you’re driving. Love your reviews!!💯💯👍👍👍
It’s a work of art, and because of the way it’s made, a masterpiece. I hope you enjoy and cherish it as something unique and very special. I think this kind of perfection could only be created in Japan. Congratulations!
Oh man! I was planing to switch my 2019 inspiration serios for this one. Those two features were the original reasons why I got it. Compare to those that don’t have them it feels superb. But hey!, congrats on that beautiful machine.
Congrats David and thank you for the great reviews. As an owner of a 2022 Inspiration I appreciate your enthusiasm about the LC500! 😊
I noticed the black/black chrome of the mirriors and exhaust surrounds which look spectacular. Are the Katana Blades or anything else black or black chrome? I'm thinking about adding those three upgrades to my 2022.
Not having the rear wheel steering was a deal breaker for me. My 2018 has every possible option and package. So glad I went all in! Atomic Silver, Rioja Red interior, carbon roof and door sills. Performance, Dynamic Handling, and Touring package. Never parting with it!!!
ONE OF MY DREAM SPORTS COUPE and a must keep! hope lexus updates the interior before rolling it out together with the LS
I have been waiting on this !
One of my favorite vehicles! The other is the Mercedes S Class. I currently own a 2018 Escalade.
Just to let you know that variable steering helps turning a lot at lower speeds.Congratulations on your car,I dig it and have been contemplating
Have you noticed the rear left or right raising or lowering depending on the steering direction? I think this is unique for the 2024 Inspiration Series.
David - like you I get a little frustrated when reviewers compare the LC to the 911. It should be compared to the Aston DB11. (I have had an Aston in the past - currently have the LC and have driven the 911 so should know what I’m talking about!)
As an owner of LC for the last 4yrs, this thumbnail had me like “wait? This car has bads?” Haha
David, congrats ! I might be new to you but I’m also a mech engineer in Toronto. I’ve been watching your videos for quite a while. Thanks for your great works, especially the LC factory you showed in Japan. It’s eye opening ! I’m also waiting for my LC. Should be in May/June, my sales told me. It’s also white with navy+white interior, bespoke built.
My questions are, have you experienced clunky tranny & squeaky brakes, like on the earlier LCs ? Also, carjacking by teenagers in Toronto are on the rise ! My wife is very concerned. How is it in Vancouver ?
Hey David, Congratulations on your new LC500!!! I have a question about the IS500. Will 2024 be the last year or will there be a 2025 model? Also, what year do you expect a redesign or new model to replace the IS. I've searched online but haven't been able to find information on this. I hope it's continued. Thanks!
A few insiders mentioned 2025 being the last year.
Amazing car. Happy for you, David! My question is does it have cornering lights? I believe this is a feature on triple beam option on ES and LS. Curious if LC has it as well.
Excellent review. This tempts me to join the club. Enjoy the car David.
Hi David, I am writing to you because I am at a road block with several concerns. Every where I ask, I receive different responses. Could you help clarify them for me? The first question is: my wife and I purchased, just after the 2023 Thanksgiving holiday, a 2024 Lexus LC 500 Convertible. So far, this is a great purchase, given the comparison between a Porsche and a Mercedes Benz. In my post research, I sincerely, CANNOT differentiate (with some exceptions) between the 2024 LC 500 Convertible that we purchased, the the 2024 LC 500 Inspiration / Bespoke Models and an exclusive increase in price for these differences). The only difference that I have found are: Some color combination, and a signed Lexus certification letter from the manufacture). I have attached the specifications that are listed in the purchase of the vehicle and pictures of the car. To my knowledge, the car that I purchased (2024 LC 500 Convertible) have pretty much all the mechanical and technological systems like the 2024 LC 500 Inspiration Series / Bespoke. Could you please tell me the differences, besides the ones listed in this comment?
Also, my car has about 1,800 miles on it. When should I change the oil on this vehicle? I am retired. I keep the car in the garage and so far have used it locally. The only time this car has been driven has been to the dealership, which is about 1 hour from home.
Lastly, I am grateful for your input as this has influence my decision to purchase the 2024 Lexus LS 500 Convertible. One of the main reasons to purchase this car was the fact that it has a naturally aspirated engine. I am old school and not really convince in EV's. While I do own 2 cars (Volvo) with turbo engines, you cannot compare them to the naturally aspiration V8 471 engine. This reminds me of my youth and my exposures to the V8 engines purchased by my father, uncles, etc. My understanding is that Lexus will stop making this engine to accommodate electric engines and or reduce the V8 to a 6 cylinder motor. What a mistake, in my opinion.
Here are the pictures for you reference:
Sorry, I do not know how to add pictures. How do I do this?
Beautiful car
The fixed wing on this looks very strange, particularly on the wings. I hate to say, but it spoils the exceptional style.
Congrats! That blue interior is lovely
Hi David!
I love this video… As you know, this is one of my three favorite all time Lexus make and model… I am looking forward to your future videos with this vehicle… They are really crushing us down here in Texas with CAR INSURANCE… My LX 570 went up 100% so I have to hold off for a while getting a second vehicle I think I’m going to miss the window for the 2023 GX 460 but they are truly crushing us with CAR INSURANCE home insurance and utilities have skyrocketed and it really has put a dent in my budget anyway this beautiful LC 500 in my opinion is the ultimate GT cruiser like the Aston Martin vanquish… However The LC 500 is my favorite GT cruiser in the world and in my opinion it is made by the Takumi craftsman in the best factory in the world… I am looking so forward for the next video I can’t wait! Thank you DAVID for not only making phenomenal videos for the world, but for making my life better…🇯🇵🤍❤️🌎
What a magnificent machine. One day…one day I will own one. Great video.
Nice pick up. I consider getting one still but I’m wanting a sportier car but still love having the Lexus comfort. Wondering if I can modify it to make it have more sporty to drive
That satin paint is delightful❤
A better stat performance more raw Track GT is the RCF specifically the TE edition the LC on the other hand is the best travel peformance GT focused on smoothness and refinement. The weight on the LC although nearly 400lbs heavier than its more sporty RCF does very well in insulating the driver from that reality. Both great cars different performance and experience targets and a win win for the consumer to chose from. Great that Lexus provides options for its users that will only get better as the new generation of F cars comes into play. I love both options different buyers and just beautiful offerings from Lexus. I think the combination of RC/LC will be very interesting.
So spectacular!
David it’s really nice to see your early miles. You make a great point of LC/LS sharing platform. LS is 5.0L V8 capable and not selling for same reason LC500h is not selling. Wrong engine.
City users feel big engines attract the people who scratch cars and the experience of having your car scratched is soul destroying, so I guess people get smaller engines for that reason more than they do for getting further miles per gallon.
Any future replacement model is going to need more than just an engine modification or change. The entire model (EXCEPT for its front end of course) needs updating in ambient cabin lighting, variable suspension, much bigger trunk/boot, bigger/better display screen, more/better AR/AI assistance upon voice command.
@@edmundcharles5278 those are all the easy things. Developing an engine and meeting emissions is far more difficult. It involves politics that Toyota has no control over.
You picked up an heirloom of an LC. A 2025/6 Copper crest coupe with performance pack is my goal to achieve next 2 year's. Kept in new condition these cars will be worth 10x in 20 years.
'You buy the LC 500 with your heart, not necessarily with your logical discernment!'. I hope that any new versions of the the LC 5600 or its successor is that the next model totally re-engineered to offer everything that other $100K class vehicles offer from both a performance and luxury perspective.
My „exit car“ … working on it, nice video 👍
If at all possible, have them fix the trunk. I was aghast and it holds me back from purchasing the vehicle. Basically even the sales guy was embarrassed to think the trunk was closed when the car insisted it wasn't and you couldn't move the top as a result....no reason something so expensive should have such an annoying little issue.
Is the inspiration series also Takumi tuned like the ultimate edition for Europe David?
Funny you mention the NSX when I sell mine this is what I’ll be getting…love the interior…
I have been struggling with finding a LC500 Coupe in the right color combination. My desire to only look at cars with the Dynamic Handling Package has been the most difficult. Now David states he actually prefers that the variable ratio steering not be included but would not mind the rear wheel steering assist.
My struggle for actually purchasing this just got a LOT harder. David, could you add anything to that part of the review that might shed more light on this? I love your #6/125. Congrats!
Maybe I can do a livestream where I answer more questions about the LC...
I bought mine with the full sports plus package, and have pushed it harder than I should on back roads at night as well as a tour of Scotland. I can confirm that the rear steer and stability management have made near-disastrous corner misjudgements into exciting events through electronic witchcraft. I think I could have saved both events that spring to mind, but the car made it look intentional and a bit cool. If you trust your skills at the limit, no rear steer is for you but for a safety net you should consider it. Plus the turning circle is excellent…
Well most other European cars that do offer variable rear wheel steering contend that it is a very useful feature, especially when running outing vehicle on a backroad at an aggressive pace. Go look at some TH-cam videos on the Mercedes AMG CLE and GT53! You will be convinced.
@@edmundcharles5278 Variable steering and rear steering are two separate features. I agree that rear steering enhances high speed turning and also makes the turning circle smaller. The variable steering is separate from rear wheel steer. it changes angle as you turn the steering more and more, but in the process, reduces the steering feedback and some sense of natural feel.
Took me 6 months to find the one I wanted. Its a rare car an inventory is limited.
After the 3 year warranty, i wonder how much is the basic annual oil filter change. Toyota is the most reliable , low maintenance costs, is that also applies to Lexus LC 500?
You should review LFA
Love the new wheels.
David, congratulations for your LC, but Remember, this 006/125 its for Collection, so wont Resale it Pls! 🙏🏼
Yes I am keeping this one!
There may be a packaging/space conflict with the rear wheel steer mechanism and the convertible top.
How?
However, mine is a coupe and not a convertible.
You are correct, rear steer is not an option on the convertibles because the additional chassis bracing on the convertible goes right where the rear steer module goes on the coupes. SavageGeese covered this in their 2021 convertible video:
th-cam.com/video/DZfAW6NqASY/w-d-xo.html
Thank you very comprehensive. I can afford used so will have live with that it’s still a lc500
I always get compliments on my lc convertible..
Is it comfortable to sit in? Many sports cars are too low on the ground, look uncomfortable.
@whitesamurai yes very comfortable. Long road trips no issues.. I'm 6ft 280lbs.. lots of space.. set it to comfort for long road trips and it floats.. sport plus for the corners..
@@whitesamurai more comfortable than benz SL.. the older version.. not sure about the newer one
@@nickgalick5386 thanks for the fast reply! Yes, I was toying with this vs the AMG but my biggest concerns are riding comfort and maintenance/repair bills.
The LC and LS500 are quite rare: I have yet to see one in real life.
@@whitesamurai I'm sure either one would be awesome 👌
When are you going to setup a LC 500 meet in vancouver?!?!?! ill bring mine!
Great colour combination you have
How can I track down a signature series?
I want to buy one for my mom.
Does yours bounce off the rev limiter in manual mode while in Sport+ with Traction off?
Lexus should host a LC 500 tour for LC owners.
Love the colour
Can I get the carbon spoiler in bespoke build?
Great Work, David!
I pick my LC in 4-6 weeks. I’m looking forward to taking this journey with you.
Questions:
1) Can you talk about the engine cycle: Auto cycle and Atkinson
2) Is the variable ratio steering and four wheel steering the same as the VDIM (Vehicle Dynamic Integrated Management) and Vectoring wheels?
3) Where can I find more details on the LC?
Perhaps I should do a livestream and answer some questions...
Go on TH-cam and look at tne various LC 500 videos- your answers are there!
Do you know if the bespoke build package ($3600 usd) has the LSD?
Beautiful car!
Congratulations on your LC500 she’s stunning! One of the complaints I’ve read is that the cabin is dark when riding at night. Is there ambient lighting in the 2024 model? Do you find it that there be adequate cabin lighting at night?
Amen! Thank you. Lexus needs to go look at the Mercedes AMG ambient cabin lighting modes and layout! Those engineers at Lexus must be asleep or abandoned upgrading the LC 500! This model should have be updated every year since 2018! It has serious deficiencies to include one small cup holder and a console storage bay that is just about worthless.
Question: the headlights are not adaptive, correct? I.e. the beam does not turn as a function of steering angle?
Beautiful car , congratulations sir
David how many cars do you own now?
Thoughts on this vs a Cadillac CT5 V Blackwing for a sports tourer?
Put the stereo to +1 treble +2 mid all the way up bass, Fade it back a notch, leave surround on, volume 35 or above and the sound/ music washes over you. People just complain to complain. Its like all those that complained about entertainment system without understanding voice commands
Thank you for the useful info.
I will get the convertible, what you think, right choice?
My bespoke build iridium exterior and white/blue interior LC500 is soon here in Vancouver! I would have got the inspiration series if it were silver : p . I am a sucker for metallic paint.
How was your bespoke experience? I am thinking about going that route? How long does it take to build before delivered to you? Thanks.
@@bobb.7899 mine is still in progress. Last time checked they say it's gonna be here in June 12th-17th. So I'd say give it half a year at least. I definitely recommend the sport version if you like the default ext/int combos. Because you can get rear wheel steering (which is missing on bespoke for some odd reason even if you opt for the sport pakcage or dynamic package). I went for bespoke because there's no iridium/whiteblue available.
@@bobb.7899
Get the Dynamic Handling package which means not selecting the bespoke or inspiration series!
Your purchase speaks loudly of your judgment. But, why not get a convertible with all the best options?
It's an absolute Gorgeous CAR!!!!😍😍😍😍
Addressing the complaints on the sound system - the engine is the music, shame on people for drowning that out :) Or just maybe the engine is taking the stage instead, and everything else sounds worse.
I love the sound of the stereo in my 2018 model, maybe they wear in well with time? But it doesn’t get much use, only parked in my garage occasionally… engine engine engine! Best sound 👍🏼
I had a 2018, it spent more time in the shop than on the road. Lane assist caused an accident, it had an intermittent brake problem where the rear brakes locked at highway speeds, Levinson amp kept going out, transmission slipped, I traded it on a 911 at 22k miles, not my first Lexus, definitely my last.
Love your night drives. The only thing is my lights are not as bright as yours. Not at all.
Why are the green traffic lights blinking?
It's high performance but fat, and heavy but for all the right reasons. So it's a GT car. Because of the weight, it does not make sense to try to tune it obsessively. Finally, 2024 has a touch screen so it will be the one to look for used two years from now.
What do you do for a living?
what package has that spoiler?
David, please compare this to the IS500 that you previously owned.
OK, maybe in one of future videos...
Very nice vehicle
I collected a Lexus es300h last Friday I couldn’t afford a the LS 😢😢😢
I love my GX460, tolerate by LX600, and have considered the LC500, but I don’t see myself enjoying it when I have a GT3. Now an LFA ….
Please help me out here,
I have a 2022 Supra CF-EDITION....But I'm in love with the Lexus is500...that I make the trade ..
Is500 is a down grade from a supra. In a store owner myself. I’m 40 and will probably get a lc500 within the next 5 years.
Still beautiful I love it